We talk a lot about safety and procedure when you’re behind the wheel of a forklift and with good reason- but the steps that need to be take on board a truck don’t end once the driver engages the drive train.
Approaching and lifting a load have their own steps as well to ensure safe, efficient relocation of the materials.
Keep these steps and questions in mind as you approach a new load:
- Make sure the load is within the rated capacity of the forklift you are driving. If you don’t know the max load, find it in the drivers’ manifest.
- Verify that the load isn’t unstable, top heavy or unusually-shaped. The operator may need to get off the lift to determine this.
- The load should be evenly distributed on the pallet as well. If it’s not- re-stack it. Taking a few moments to do that now will be worth it.
- Some loads are just unbalanced or awkwardly shaped. Make sure the heavy end is carried against the base of the forks.
- In some instances, the pallet is damaged and may be unstable. Give the base of your load a look as well. Replace the pallet if necessary.
- If your load is so large that it obscures your vision, travel in reverse, and have a co-worker spot you outside the forklift.
- When you pick up the load, think about where that load is going as well. The most convenient pick-up of an item may not be the best way to deliver it.
- Unless the load is made to be stacked, don’t do it. Lifting one pallet at a time is best in most situations.
- Make sure the forks are at the appropriate width for the load and adjust if necessary. This guarantees stability.
- Lifting and placing a load is what the forklifts are built for, but they need your help to ensure safe, efficient operation.
If you have questions, we can handle those. Contact our experts and we’ll help keep you safe.